Vermont's governor has issued a proclamation rebranding Columbus Day asIndigenous Peoples' Day in honor of the "sacrifice and contributions of the First Peoples of this land," including the Abenaki, their ancestors and allies.

Gov. Peter Shumlin said in the executive proclamation that a growing number of cities and towns across the country recognize the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples' Day.

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He said the day is an opportunity to celebrate "indigenous heritage and resiliency."